Lake birding habitat

Pelican Lake

Utah · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Pelican Lake is a productive birding destination in Utah, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

4/15/2026Ouray NWR -- Sheppard Bottoms3 observed

Least Sandpiper

Calidris minutilla

4/15/2026Inlet canal and pond10 observed

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

4/13/2026Pelican Lake, North side4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/10/2026

American White Pelican

14/10/2026

Western Meadowlark

24/10/2026

Cinnamon Teal

94/9/2026

Northern Shoveler

354/9/2026

Gadwall

804/9/2026

Mallard

244/9/2026

Green-winged Teal

324/9/2026

Ring-necked Duck

34/9/2026

Lesser Scaup

124/9/2026

Bufflehead

44/9/2026

Common Merganser

144/9/2026

Ruddy Duck

104/9/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

14/9/2026

American Coot

3504/9/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/9/2026

American Avocet

84/9/2026

Killdeer

54/9/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

34/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Pelican Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Pelican Lake for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Pelican Lake?
Notable species at Pelican Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pelican Lake?
Birding at Pelican Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pelican Lake?
Pelican Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.